Summer is prime time for sunshine, busy schedules, and let’s face it—shedding. As temperatures climb, many pets begin to lose their winter coats, and that means more fur, more dander, and more cleaning for pet care professionals.
Whether you run a grooming salon, daycare, or boarding facility, having a game plan for managing the mess is key to maintaining a clean, hygienic environment for pets, staff, and pet parents alike.
Here’s how to stay ahead of the summer shed and keep your facility looking (and smelling) fresh.
Why Do Pets Shed More in the Summer?
Shedding is a natural response to seasonal changes. As the weather warms, dogs and cats begin to lose their thicker winter coats in preparation for the heat. Even indoor pets, who experience less drastic seasonal exposure, still respond to changes in light and temperature with increased shedding.
Some key factors:
- Longer daylight hours trigger hair growth cycles
- Temperature shifts affect coat thickness
- Stress or frequent transitions, like travel or boarding, can also increase shedding
For pet care facilities, this means that fur, dander, and allergens are on the rise—especially in high-traffic areas.
Daily Clean-Up Hacks for Busy Pet Facilities
1. Create a High-Shed Season Schedule
Add a few minutes of extra clean-up time to your team’s daily checklist from May through August. Sweeping, vacuuming, and air filtration become even more important when shedding increases.
Set reminders to:
- Vacuum common areas at least twice per day
- Wipe down surfaces that collect hair (counters, benches, crates)
- Empty air filters and clean vents regularly
2. Use the Right Tools for the Job
Basic brooms and dustpans won’t cut it when you’re battling hair tumbleweeds. Invest in high-efficiency vacuums with HEPA filters and rubber-bladed squeegees or brushes that pull up fur from hard floors.
In grooming areas, keep handheld vacuums nearby to collect loose fur before it spreads.
3. Boost Air Quality (and Reduce Allergens)
Summer shedding doesn’t just leave fur behind—it increases airborne dander that can irritate sensitive pets and people.
To keep your facility breathable:
- Run air purifiers in enclosed rooms
- Keep HVAC filters clean and replace them regularly
- Use hypoallergenic cleaning products that won’t aggravate sensitive noses
4. Keep Feeding Areas Extra Tidy
Fur can easily drift into food and water bowls, especially when fans or AC units are in use. Make feeding zones easier to clean by using Kleanbowl refills—they can be swapped out in seconds, so you’re not chasing fur around the dish during peak hours.
The less time spent cleaning bowls, the more time your staff has to focus on keeping floors, play areas, and grooming stations spotless.
5. Educate Pet Parents on At-Home Prep
Consider adding a seasonal tip sheet or quick conversation during drop-off to help pet parents reduce shedding before pets arrive. Recommend regular brushing at home and lightweight grooming appointments to keep things under control on both ends.
Fur-Free Floors and Happy Pets All Season Long
Summer shedding doesn’t have to slow your team down. With the right tools, routines, and smart systems like Kleanbowl, your facility can maintain the highest standards of hygiene—even during peak fur season.
